The Danube Outdoors 2023

Discover a world of scenic beauty, hiking trails, cycling routes and cultural treasures as you embark on an unforgettable journey along the majestic Danube River

Germany

Germany’s landscapes are uniquely diverse. Discover the German section of the Danube with its many facets.

Just like every river, the Danube starts off small. It rises up in the gardens of Fürstenberg Palace in Donaueschingen. The Danube continues its course through Ulm, home to the world’s tallest church tower, through Donauwörth, the location of one of the most stunning streets in the south of Germany, and reaches the spectacular landscape at the Danube Gorge. Many caves, awarded UNESCO World Heritage Status, are just waiting to be explored in the Urdonau Valley. There are almost a thousand monuments to visit in Regensburg’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether in the city or in the countryside, Germany is a place where culture is honoured and preserved. Close to the border is Passau, the city with the Three Rivers Corner, where the three rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz meet. Besides the classic Danube Cycle Route, 600 km along the river, many other outdoor activities await you.

River mouth of Isar to Danube © Landratsamt Deggendorf/Christian Schreiner
Nature Park Upper Danube: The Knopfmacherfelsen on the Danube Peaks Trail in autumn © GNTB/Deutschland abgelichtet Medienproduktion

Upper Danube Nature Park

The high mountain landscape of the Upper Danube Nature Park is characterized by rugged limestone cliffs from the Jurassic period, mixed forests and the wide Alb plateau. The Danube Depression is located between Immendingen and Tuttlingen-Möhringen. Visitors can experience nature up close on.

Gosheim: Donauberglandweg, hiking break on the Lemberg mountain © GNTB/Deutschland abgelichtet Medienproduktion

Hiking along the Danube

The Danube offers a variety of hiking trails like the Danube-Mountain-Trail, with amazing views on the river. Another one is the Danube Zollernalb Trail, the big brother of the Danube Peaks Trail. If you put the two hiking trails together, you get a major hiking tour through South-West Germany.

Riedenburg: The Rosenburg above the town, Altmühltal Nature Park © GNTB/Frank Blümler

From the Tauber to the Danube

A Franconian natural spectacle awaits cyclists on this route of 250 kilometres. Franconian home cooking along the way and bathing fun at the Altmühltalsee or the UNESCO-World Heritage Limes are not missed out. The route ends, where the River Altmühl conjoins with the mouth of the mighty Danube river.

Ingolstadt: City festival on the Danube with New Castle © Lookphotos/Thomas Stankiewicz

Ingolstadt full of tradition

The university city and shopping destination on the Danube, boasts a delightful blend of tradition and history. Lovingly restored gabled merchants’ houses, splendid city gates, imposing towers and an impressive fortress dominate the appearance of the city.

Upper Danube Valley: Couple in a kayak paddles on the Danube © AdobeStock/turtles2

Paddling through gorges

Paddling along the Danube for 28 kilometres: On this route, nature and culture can be experienced simultaneously. The Wackerstein Castle and the Roman fort of Abusina invite for a shore excursion. From the Danube breakthrough on, the Danube landscape turns into a true canyon for six kilometres.

Donau Radweg ©German National Tourist Board

Donau Radweg ©German National Tourist Board

Austria

Are you planning your vacation and do not know where to go yet?

We give you a few reasons why your next holiday should go to the Danube in Austria. 

Welcome to the Austrian Danube!

The fascinating river landscape, the impressive natural and cultural experiences as well as plenty of adventure promise a holiday experience in a class of its own. The special thing about the Danube region in Austria: the picturesque villages, charming old towns and modern cultural sites can be wonderfully explored during an enjoyable active outdoor holiday.

Whether close to the water while cycling on the Danube Cycle Path from Passau to Vienna, with a breathtaking view of the river landscape while hiking or conquering the element of water on an excursion with boats and ships or simply relaxing and enjoying the delicacies in the restaurants and inns of this region … the Austrian Danube region stands for an inexhaustible variety of holiday experiences!

© ARGE Donau Österreich-Weissenbrunner
© ARGE Donau Österreich-Weissenbrunner
© NÖW, David Schreiber

For Cycling friends

Encounter the river & its history on the Danube Cycle Path from Passau to Vienna. It guarantees 330 kilometres of pure cycling joy. Whether rest areas, Danube ferries, bike rentals, e-charging stations or bike-friendly accommodation. Here you will find all a cycling enthuast needs for a perfect holiday.

Cycling in Upper Austria

Cycling in Lower Austria

© Oberösterreich Tourismus GmbH-Robert Maybach

Hiking bliss – feel high above by foot

Explore one of the most beautiful river landscapes in Europe by foot and enjoy breathtaking views on the Danube. Paired with high service quality and a wide range of refreshment and accommodation options. Pleasure hikers get their money´s worth on the Danube in Austria.

© Die Abbilderei

Danube water experience

One of the most beautiful ways to discover the Danube and get very close to it, is from the water. On board an excursion boat, cruise ship or a traditional barge, you can really enjoy the scenery of varied landscapes.

© Robert Herbst

UNESCO World Heritage

From impressive natural spectacles to the architectural witnesses of a rich and turbulent past, the approximately 350 kilometers of river through Austria are home to World Heritage Sites of great significance. As many as four of the twelve World Heritage Sites in Austria can be found in the Danube region.

© CMVisuals

Taste the Danube Austria

The Austrian Danube region is a paradise for gourmets: Tasty Danube fish, dumplings and roast meat, liquid happiness in the form of beer, cider and wine from the Wachau Valley or fruity pastries – there is something for every taste. The special, the original Austrian coziness and hospitality gives a pleasure trip a special spice. Inspired by nature and the regional raw materials, sometimes traditional, sometimes innovative creations are served up.

© Dominic Lars

Danube Travel Stories

With DANUBE TRAVEL STORIES you will discover the natural and cultural heritage of the Danube region, and find out what role the Danube river played in European relations, the area’s nature, the Roman era, art & culture, trade and spirituality. DANUBE TRAVEL STORIES are all about sustainable travel, allowing you to discover the Danube region from a whole new angle. An exciting and unforgettable adventure awaits with DANUBE TRAVEL STORIES!

© CM Visuals
© CM Visuals

Croatia

At the very heart of the crossroads between southern Hungary, northern Serbia (Vojvodina) and northern Bosnia&Herzegovina you will find Slavonia & Baranja, an authentic Croatian region full of natural and cultural sites best known for the warm hospitality of its people. This breadbasket of Croatia offers many different experiences, from horse riding, wine tasting at cellars established centuries ago by noble families, off road adventures, photo safaries and half-marathons at nature reserves such as Kopački rit that give a visitor European Amazon wildlife „feeling“, gastronomic delights and many other. Going way back to the Roman times, long wine making tradition makes Slavonia & Baranja one of the most important wine regions of Croatia. As for hunting, Slavonian & Baranja woods and great natural oasis made by rivers Danube, Drava and Sava, create an interesting destination for many members of the royal families and hunting lovers. See you in Slavonia & Baranja!

© Vjeran Vidaković

Kopački rit Nature Park

Kopački rit was shaped by the Danube, and to a lesser extent by the Drava. Swamps, damp lawns, river sleeves, meanders and sandbars make the magic zone one of the last pristine European wetlands. Not surprisingly, Kopački rit is also a dream destination for all nature and photography lovers.

© Nenad Milić

Baranja – Mother of Wine

Baranja is “the mother of wine” and the village of Zmajevac is the wine capital of Baranja with its unique “surduk” wine streets. Discover the viewpoint on Bansko Hill, one of the most beautiful wine roads. Take a look at wine cellar in Kneževi Vinogradi also known as the biggest wine cellar in Croatia.

© Marko Banić

Erdut – Danube Wine Peninsula

The vineyards of Erdut are considered to be the homeland of „the wines from the Danube“ due to their impressive location next to the Danube River. One of the largest European wooden barrels is carefully stored but also still used in the wine cellars of Erdut. It can store 75,000 liters of Riesling!

© Denis Despot

Osijek, the capital of Slavonia

The center of Slavonia and Baranja, located in the area between wheat fields and the Drava River. Osijek is a lively city with a friendliness of a local village, and a combination of classic sights, natural beauty and energy inviting you for a true adventure.

Serbia

Discover the Danube in Serbia, where nature and culture intertwine.

For the adventurous souls, kayaking and canoeing along the Danube provide an exhilarating journey. Paddle through its calm currents, explore secluded coves, and relish in the beauty of the untouched nature.

Hiking and biking enthusiasts will find a network of trails that follow the Danube’s course, offering stunning views and a chance to explore the region’s natural wonders. Connect with the nature, encounter wildlife, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Serbian countryside.
As the sun sets, indulge in the romantic allure of the Danube with a sunset cruise. Raise a glass of local wine, toast to the moment, and let the beauty of the Danube ignite your soul.

Along the Danube, you will encounter a tapestry of cultures, as it has been a crossroads of civilizations. Discover the ancient Roman ruins of Viminacium, stroll through the streets of Novi Sad, or experience the vibrant energy of Belgrade, Serbia’s capital.

© Jovan Eraković

EuroVelo 6

EuroVelo 6 in Serbia offers cyclists a diverse experience along the Danube River. Enjoy scenic views, historic sites, and charming towns. Explore nature reserves, spot wildlife, and engage with local culture. A memorable journey filled with beauty and hospitality awaits. Pedal EuroVelo 6 in Serbia!

© Jelena Prodanov

Fruška Gora

Discover the hidden gem of Fruška Gora! This majestic mountain in Serbia captivates with its lush forests, ancient monasteries, and enchanting landscapes. Hike through nature trails, taste exquisite local wines, and immerse yourself in centuries of history. Fruška Gora awaits, promising unforgettable adventures and serene tranquillity.

© Turistička organizacija Srbije

Djerdap

Unveil the breath-taking beauty of Djerdap National Park! Located in Serbia, it’s a paradise of rugged cliffs, lush forests, and the magnificent Iron Gates gorge. Immerse yourself in nature, witness rare wildlife, explore ancient Roman ruins, and cruise along the mighty Danube River. Djerdap National Park beckons adventurers seeking awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable experiences.

© Silrad Kovač

Gornje Podunavlje

Experience the enchantment of Gornje Podunavlje, a special nature reserve in Serbia. Immerse yourself in pristine wetlands, lush forests, and diverse ecosystems. Encounter rare bird species, witness captivating wildlife, and explore tranquil nature trails. With its untouched beauty and ecological significance, Gornje Podunavlje invites you to connect with nature and create unforgettable memories. Discover the magic of this treasure in Serbia.

© Luka Šarac

Fortresses on the Danube

Embark on a journey through history along the Danube River in Serbia and discover its captivating fortresses. These majestic fortifications stand as testaments to centuries of strategic importance. Immerse yourself in the stories of ancient battles, explore their impressive architecture, and enjoy breath-taking views of the river. From the iconic Petrovaradin Fortress, mighty Belgrade fortress to the medieval Golubac, each fortress offers a glimpse into Serbia’s rich heritage. Unleash your inner explorer and experience the allure of the Danube’s fortresses in Serbia.

Belgrade

Proudly named the City of Culture, City of Inspiration, City of Sports and Festivals, Belgrade develops and changes fast, protecting its tradition within the mixture of culture, architecture and urban spirit. In many ways, Belgrade is unique European destination. It is a city renowned for its rich and exotic flavors, from food and wine to remarkable history, from cultural offerings to famous nightlife that is the talk of Europe.

Belgrade is a hip dynamic city. With some of the most attractive locations, Belgrade Fortress – the oldest cultural and historical monument, Skadarlija – the bohemian quarter in the city centre, Knez Mihailova street; Old and New Royal Court, Parliament building, Temple of St. Sava, Zemun and many others, Belgrade makes the cultural centre of South East Europe.

Belgrade Fortress

The Fortress overlooks the confluence of Sava and Danube rivers and represents an open-air museum of Belgrade history. The Victor monument, the symbol of Belgrade, is the favorite photo point of hundreds of thousands of tourists in the Serbian capital.

Kosančićev venac

Tucked between blocks of modern buildings, Kosančićev venac has partially preserved the atmosphere of the 19th century with its cobbled streets, gardens and old-fashioned buildings. The whole neighborhood is interspersed with small cafés overlooking the river, and cozy wineries.

Zemun

Zemun represents a city within the city. Old Zemun attracts many visitors with its narrow streets and old buildings from Austro-Hungarian period, traditionally hospitable people, authentic cuisine and cozy atmosphere in its restaurants. The symbol of Zemun is the Millennium Tower on Gardoš Hill.

Great War Island kayaking

Explore the mighty Danube in the heart of the city. The Great War Island is a protected area of untouched nature which you can experience from another perspective and make unforgettable memories!

Romania

Romania, a captivating country in southeastern Europe, blends ancient traditions with modern influences. Its diverse landscapes include the Carpathian Mountains, enchanting forests, and the Danube Delta. Architectural wonders like Bran Castle and the Palace of Parliament in Bucharest add to its allure. Cultural heritage is celebrated through colorful folk traditions, music, and a fusion of flavors in Romanian cuisine. With a growing economy and modern infrastructure, Romania offers a vibrant arts and nightlife scene. Bucharest, the capital, is a dynamic city where the old and new coexist. The country’s tourism industry is expanding, attracting visitors with its natural wonders, historic sites, and authentic experiences. Romania is a unique and unforgettable journey into the heart of Eastern Europe.

Explore cultural Romania!

Embark on a cultural odyssey through Romania’s rich heritage. Discover ancient traditions, knightly castles and fortresses, architecture diversity and vibrant cities on our immersive cultural tours. Unforgettable experiences await!

Discover the cultural Romania

Discover Romania’s amazing nature!

With 47% of the Carpathian Mountains and 1/3 of Europe’s caves, Romania is the place to be for the adventurous spirit. For the winter season, the ski slopes at 600-1,800m altitude cater to all skill levels, creating a thrilling experience for beginners and experienced skiers alike.

Discover the Wild Nature

Feel the Rural Charm!

Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of the Carpathian garden. Experience rural life in ancient villages amidst breathtaking landscapes. As guests and participants, engage in traditional activities like cooking, wood carving, weaving, hay making, and land working, creating unforgettable memories.

Discover rural tourism

© Timișoara City Hall

Feel like going out?

2023 is the year when Romania hosts a European Capital of Culture, namely Timișoara, the major city of Banat historical region. The events agenda is rich also in other cities of the country, where various electronic, jazz, rock, medieval or classical music festivals are held throughout the year.

Romania City Breaks

Spa & Wellness Escapes in Romania

Delight in rejuvenation and find tranquility in Romania’s spa and wellness retreats. From soothing thermal baths to pampering spa treatments amidst breathtaking natural settings, immerse yourself in ultimate relaxation. Discover a haven of serenity and restore your mind, body, and soul.

Romania Wellness and Health

© Constanta County Council

The Romanian Riviera

Along the 275 km of coastline at the Black Sea Coast there is a lace of seaside resorts suitable for every taste and pocket, the most famous ones being: Mamaia, Mangalia, Neptun, Saturn, Venus, Olimp, Costinești, Eforie Nord and Eforie Sud.

The Romanian Riviera

Tours recommended by our partners

Danube Delta by bike and boat

The Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve is probably the wildest region of Europe, while Dobrogea region hosts the oldest mountains in Europe and is a mosaic of historical culture and civilization. Visiting the region by bike and boat should be one of the most unexpected experiences as a tourist.

Danube Gorges by bike and boat 6 days

The Danube Gorges of Romania is about landscape, communities, culture, and traditions. In the 6-day journey you will discover secret villages, awesome views of the Danube, monasteries, hidden caves accessible by boat, and reminiscences of the Roman Empire. The best time to visit is May to October.

The Wine Route by Bike

We invite you to experience a combination of gastronomic and outdoor activities along the Danube banks – one of the most suitable destinations for wine trips.
Our hosts are professional wine makers, always happy to present their cellars. The regions are also places for historical and cultural sites.

Bulgaria

Rousse Regional Museum of History

The Museum of History presents archaeological heritage from the Prehistoric era and Roman time. There is also a Military Glory Room in the museum and the reserves of Ivanovo Rock-Hewn Churches and the Medieval Town of Cherven are presented. There are also two rooms for temporary exhibitions.

Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo

The rock churches were inscribed in the UNESCO list of world cultural heritage in 1979. The area was registered as National Archaeological Reserve in 1978.The frescos in the lavra rock monastery that have survived show scenes from the Gospel cycle, most of them depicting moments of the Passion Week.

Medieval Town of Cherven

The Medieval Town of Cherven is an impressive fortress from the time of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. It is 30 km south of Rousse, on the territory of the village of Cherven, which is its natural successor. The area was registered as a national archaeological reserve in 1965.

Ukraine

Tourist Ukraine: color and bright impressions

Ukraine has fantastic nature – mountains, forests, seas and lakes. Seven national historical and cultural reserves are located on its territory. There are more than 200,000 monuments of culture, history, urban planning and architecture, palace and park art, archeology, as well as almost four hundred museums.

You should visit Ukraine at any time of the year – each of them is unique. The most demanding traveler will find something to his liking here, because the country combines all types of tourism: from beach to mountain skiing, from health and wellness to food and wine.

By the way, it is very tasty in Ukraine. You can talk endlessly about Ukrainian cuisine and its traditional products and dishes.

But the most important thing is that Ukraine is a country open to foreigners from any country in the world. The country is hospitable and friendly, a country that has something to surprise and fall in love with.

Odesa National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet

Among the incredible number of architectural monuments that Ukrainians are proud of, magnificent buildings of opera houses occupy a special place. Musical buildings were built on a special scale, sparing neither money, nor effort, nor time. The sophisticated architecture and rich interiors impress modern visitors even today. The Odesa Opera House is included in the list of the most amazing architectural monuments of Eastern Europe and today is a monument of national importance.

Deribasivska street

Deribasivska is the main entrance of Odesa, one of its central streets. The rough cobblestones of the street and the absence of traffic help to immerse yourself in the silence and atmosphere of the mysterious, fascinating and great history of this place. Cobblestones for paving the street were specially brought from Italy.

City Garden

Adjacent to Deribasivska Street is the City Garden, the first garden in Odesa. From the very beginning of its existence, the City Garden has been used as a place for organizing and holding all kinds of concerts, meetings, and the most important entertainment events.

Odesa Catacombs

Odesa is a city of contrasts, which has many secrets. They are hidden, including underground. One of our most famous visiting cards is the legendary catacombs, in which many secrets still remain. Odesa residents and tourists like to go on excursions, because the network of underground passages causes considerable interest. Meanwhile, the extremes have been exploring the tunnels for many years.

Excursion to Ukrainian Venice – Vylkovo from Odesa

Vylkovo is not only a great place to enjoy wild nature, fresh air, but also for an unusual vacation in an amazing place called the Ukrainian Venice!
During the tour to Vylkovo, you will visit unique nature reserves and cross bridges over water channels.

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